Residents living near the former Hargate Arms in Hargate Lane, West Bromwich, have raised concerns over plans to convert the pub into a Morrisons Daily with an off-licence. The application by Ajay Chumber seeks permission to sell alcohol from 6am to 11pm every day, prompting objections from neighbours and ward councillors.
Objections from Councillors and Residents
Labour councillors Paul Moore and Amardeep Singh submitted an objection on behalf of residents on the nearby Tantany estate, citing fears of increased noise, disturbance, and anti-social behaviour. The objection stated: “Residents are particularly concerned that the premises, being a former public house, may reintroduce patterns of alcohol-related issues historically associated with such uses. The availability of alcohol for off-sale from 6am daily raises concerns regarding early morning street drinking, increased anti-social behaviour, and related disorder within nearby residential streets.”
Residents also worry about littering from alcohol containers and congregation outside the premises. A petition against the move described the site as an “unsuitable location” for a late-night shop, noting potential noise, parking pressures, and safety risks for children during school drop-off and pick-up times.
Previous Rejection of HMO Plans
In 2024, Sandwell Council rejected a plan to add more rooms to a house of multiple occupation (HMO) in the former pub. The proposal would have created eight new rooms in the old lounge and bar, but the council deemed it a “poor standard of accommodation” with cramped conditions. The first-floor function room had already been converted into an eight-bed HMO after the pub closed in 2016.
Licensing Decision Pending
Sandwell Council’s licensing committee will meet on July 7 to decide whether to grant the licence. The outcome will determine if the Morrisons Daily can operate with the proposed alcohol sales hours, which residents argue could undermine the amenity of the predominantly residential area.
